Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Name: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups milk; ¼ cup butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp melted butter; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich, velvety cheese sauce with perfectly baked pasta. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike. It’s the perfect side dish for gatherings or a hearty main course for a cozy night in. Experience the delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-11-26T14:36:01.640Z

This recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. It combines classic ingredients for the ultimate comfort food.

        Why You'll Love It
        Rich and creamy cheese sauce.
Crispy breadcrumb topping.
Perfect for family gatherings.
Quick and easy to prepare.

      

A Classic Comfort Food

Mac and cheese has long been a beloved comfort food for many, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish suitable for any occasion. Whether you're serving it as a side dish at holiday gatherings or as a main course for a cozy night in, this recipe is designed to please every palate. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella provides a deliciously cheesy experience that melts in your mouth.

This particular version, with its crispy breadcrumb topping, elevates traditional mac and cheese to new heights. The contrast of textures between the smooth, creamy pasta and the crunchy topping offers a delightful eating experience. It's a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings people together around the dinner table, perfect for family bonding and celebration.

Easily Customizable

One of the best features of baked mac and cheese is its versatility. While this recipe highlights classic cheese choices, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Consider adding ingredients such as sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a nutritional boost, or mix in cooked proteins such as chicken or bacon for added heartiness. This dish can be adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A combination of gouda, Monterey jack, or even pepper jack can create exciting flavor profiles, adding depth and interest to the dish. By tailoring the ingredients, you can make each batch of mac and cheese uniquely yours, showcasing flavors that your family loves.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Baked mac and cheese is not only a delicious dish but also a great option for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated for a quick and satisfying meal throughout the week. When prepared in advance, it makes weeknight dinners effortless, allowing you to simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

To freeze, prepare the recipe as directed but hold off on baking until you're ready to enjoy it. Freeze it in an airtight container for up to three months. When you're in the mood for a cheesy treat, simply take it out of the freezer, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and then bake according to the instructions. This convenience makes it an ideal dish for busy families.

Ingredients

For the mac and cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
¼ cup butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Mix well to ensure everything is combined!

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Boil the macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the cheese sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Combine

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.

Prepare the topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumb mixture, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad for a colorful, healthy contrast. The crispness of the salad provides a nice balance to the rich flavors of the dish, making your meal both satisfying and nutritious.

For those looking to enhance the flavor profile further, a dollop of tangy barbecue sauce or a sprinkle of hot sauce can add a delightful kick. Furthermore, serving this dish with garlic bread or steamed vegetables can create a well-rounded dining experience that satisfies all taste preferences.

Tips for the Best Results

For the ultimate mac and cheese, be sure to use high-quality cheeses. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and offers more flavor than pre-shredded options. Look for block cheese and shred it yourself for the creamiest sauce possible. Don't forget to taste your cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Additionally, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente. This prevents it from getting mushy during the baking process. Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven when combined with the cheese sauce. Finally, let the dish cool slightly after baking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for cleaner slices when serving.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

To properly store leftover baked mac and cheese, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead. As mentioned earlier, make sure to store it before baking for best results. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you're ready to enjoy it again.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until heated through. If you're in a hurry, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm. With these tips, you'll enjoy delicious mac and cheese even after the initial meal!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.